Suv supremacy: subaru forester vs. jeep patriot – which reigns supreme?
What To Know
- Both the Subaru Forester and Jeep Patriot offer off-road capabilities, but the Jeep Patriot has a slight edge in this area.
- The Subaru Forester and Jeep Patriot have both received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,395, while the Jeep Patriot has a starting price of $20,540.
The Subaru Forester and Jeep Patriot are two popular compact SUVs that offer a blend of ruggedness, versatility, and affordability. Both vehicles have their strengths and weaknesses, making it essential to compare them thoroughly before deciding. This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of the Subaru Forester vs Jeep Patriot matchup, helping you make an informed choice.
Performance and Handling
The Subaru Forester comes with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Jeep Patriot offers a choice between a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque or a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of performance, the Subaru Forester has a slight edge over the Jeep Patriot. The Forester’s engine provides more power and torque, resulting in better acceleration and passing power. However, the Jeep Patriot’s optional 2.4-liter engine can close the performance gap.
When it comes to handling, the Subaru Forester shines with its superior suspension and all-wheel drive system. The Forester offers a confident and stable ride, even on rough roads. The Jeep Patriot’s handling is less refined, and it can feel less composed in challenging conditions.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is an important consideration for many buyers. The Subaru Forester offers better fuel efficiency than the Jeep Patriot. The Forester’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with the base engine. The Jeep Patriot’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway with the 2.0-liter engine and 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with the 2.4-liter engine.
Interior and Features
The Subaru Forester offers a spacious and well-appointed interior. It boasts a modern design with high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The Jeep Patriot‘s interior is less impressive, with a dated design and lower-quality materials.
In terms of features, the Subaru Forester comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rearview camera. The Jeep Patriot’s standard features include a 5.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Subaru Forester and Jeep Patriot offer off-road capabilities, but the Jeep Patriot has a slight edge in this area. The Patriot’s Trail Rated badge indicates that it has been tested and proven to handle rugged terrain. It features a higher ground clearance and a more aggressive four-wheel drive system than the Forester.
Safety
Safety is a top priority for many buyers. The Subaru Forester and Jeep Patriot have both received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Forester has a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS. The Patriot has a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Good rating in all IIHS crash tests.
Price
The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,395, while the Jeep Patriot has a starting price of $20,540. The Patriot’s lower starting price makes it more affordable, but the Forester offers more standard features and a higher level of quality.
Which One is Right for You?
The Subaru Forester and Jeep Patriot are both capable compact SUVs with their own strengths and weaknesses. If you value performance, handling, fuel economy, and interior quality, the Subaru Forester is the better choice. If you prioritize off-road capabilities and affordability, the Jeep Patriot may be a better fit.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Subaru Forester has a more spacious interior than the Jeep Patriot.
Q: Which vehicle offers better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Forester offers better fuel economy than the Jeep Patriot.
Q: Which vehicle has a higher ground clearance?
A: The Jeep Patriot has a higher ground clearance than the Subaru Forester.
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Subaru Forester has a more powerful engine than the Jeep Patriot.
Q: Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
A: The Jeep Patriot has a lower starting price than the Subaru Forester.